Reading Glasses Ep 435 - Human Monsters + Alma Katsu!
Oct 30, 2025
Alma Katsu, acclaimed horror novelist and author of the chilling book FIEND, joins the conversation. She delves into the complex dynamics of family power struggles and the uncanny blend of real-world violence and human evil that make her characters terrifying. Alma also shares her experience of writing contemporary horror, revealing how it differs from her historical work. The hosts recommend spooky reads featuring human monsters, like slashers and mad scientists, perfect for the Halloween season!
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Choose Human Evil For Realistic Horror
- Prefer human-rooted horror when you want genuinely scary stakes because it feels plausible and could actually happen.
- Focus stories on human cruelty and systemic abuse to amplify dread beyond supernatural elements.
Slasher From The Killer's Mind
- Brea recommends The Eyes Are the Best Part, a slasher told from the killer's perspective that blends sympathy with horror.
- She highlights the protagonist's mental health and racial fetishization as context for the book's violence.
A Cat's POV That Haunts
- Mallory recommends The Last House on Needless Street and describes its unusual POVs including the homeowner's cat.
- She warns listeners to read content warnings and go into the book unspoiled for maximum impact.
